Medical Cards

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 April 2022

Tuesday, 5 April 2022

Questions (880)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

880. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the consultative structures that exist within the HSE or his Department in relation to policy on medical cards and operation of the scheme; if recipients or representative groups of recipients or other stakeholders are routinely consulted on the operation of the medical card and general practitioner visit card schemes; the way in which this is carried out; the frequency with which this is carried out; the plans there are to establish dedicated consultation structures with relevant stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18333/22]

Written answers

Minister for Health

In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a Medical Card/General Practitioner Visit Card is determined by the Health Service Executive (HSE). Regarding the operation of this Scheme, I wish to assure the Deputy that officials in my Department engage with relevant stakeholders and representatives as part of its continued effort to provide for an effective and efficient scheme in accordance with the legislative framework provided for under the Act.

As this question also requests relevant information relating to the medical and GP Visit Card Scheme operated by the HSE, it has also been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.